In a bold proposal, a Mike Payton of A to Z Sports has suggested a trade that would see the Detroit Lions acquire Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, from the struggling Carolina Panthers. The suggested deal would not only bring Young to Detroit but also add wide receiver Xavier Legette and a valuable 2025 fourth-round pick. In return, the Lions would send Carolina a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fifth-round pick.
The Potential Trade Details for Bryce Young
According to the proposal, the Lions would be giving up a high draft pick in 2025 but in return, they’d receive a young quarterback in Bryce Young who, despite his struggles with the Panthers, still has significant upside. The Lions would also add Xavier Legette, a receiver who the team showed significant interest in during the 2024 draft process. Additionally, Detroit would gain a 2025 fourth-round pick, which could potentially be a top pick in that round, adding more value to the deal.
Here’s the full breakdown of the proposed trade:
- Lions receive: Bryce Young, Xavier Legette, 2025 fourth-round pick
- Panthers receive: 2025 second-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick
The rationale behind this deal is rooted in the fact that the Panthers appear to be heading toward a rebuild, and after benching Young, his value has plummeted. Much like the trade that sent Trey Lance to the Cowboys for a fourth-round pick, the Panthers are unlikely to get anything more substantial in return for Young. The Lions, in this scenario, would be taking on the risk, but also betting on Young’s potential to develop behind Jared Goff.
Why the Lions Should Consider It
The idea of acquiring Bryce Young could appeal to the Lions for several reasons. First, Young, despite his rocky start with the Panthers, is still only 23 years old and has room to grow. Detroit already has Hendon Hooker as a developmental quarterback, but adding a second young signal-caller could provide valuable insurance and depth for the future. As Jared Goff ages or potentially regresses, the Lions could have a long-term option ready to step in.
The inclusion of Xavier Legette in the trade sweetens the deal even more. Legette is seen as a potential “X” receiver for the future, a role that Tim Patrick is currently filling. However, at 31 years old, Patrick is unlikely to be a long-term option for the Lions. Legette, who Detroit was very interested in during the draft process, could provide the Lions with a younger, dynamic option at the position.
Lastly, the additional 2025 fourth-round pick could give the Lions some extra draft capital. If that pick ends up being at the top of the round, Detroit could package it to move up for a different need or keep it for a future asset.
My Opinion on the Proposal
While the trade idea is intriguing on paper, my opinion is that even if the Panthers are looking to unload Bryce Young, there’s no way they would entertain the deal tossed out by A to Z Sports writer, Mike Payton. The value doesn’t line up, and the Lions, who have a solid foundation for the future with Jared Goff and Hendon Hooker, don’t need to take on the risk of trading for Young. Not to mention, Carolina would likely demand a much higher return for their former No. 1 overall pick.
Folks, there is zero chance the Lions make a move for Bryce Young. It’s an exciting idea, but let’s be realistic. Detroit is better off developing the young talent they already have, and this trade scenario is nothing more than a fantasy. So, it’s time to move on from this one.
The Bottom Line
While this trade proposal might spark conversation, it’s far from realistic. The Lions are set at quarterback for the time being, and while Bryce Young has potential, Detroit would be taking on unnecessary risk. For now, the Lions should focus on their current roster and future draft picks, and leave the Bryce Young trade rumors behind.
